HAWASSA UNIVERSITY

OTHER NATURAL SCIENCES

GLOBAL TRENDS ASSIGNMENT BY GROUP 1

SECTION 7

GROUP MEMBERS ID NUMBER

1. Abdo Ahmedabad 0013/15

2. Abel Daba. 0044/15

3. Afomiya Admasu 0113/15

4. Amen Desta 3400/14

5. Asrat Hirpha 2023/15

6. Bilal Assefa 0300/15

7. Biniam Bekele 0304/15

8. Biruk Getachew 3402/15

Global affairs encompass a wide range of interconnected issues that have significant implications for the
world as a whole. From global crises and environmental challenges to issues of inequality and poverty,
these topics require urgent attention and collective action. One of the most pressing concerns in global
affairs is the presence of various global crises. These crises can take many forms, including economic
downturns, political instability, humanitarian emergencies, and public health crises. The COVID-19
pandemic, for example, has highlighted the need for coordinated international responses to combat the
spread of infectious diseases and mitigate their social and economic impacts.
Environmental issues also play a crucial role in global affairs. Climate change, deforestation, loss of
biodiversity, and pollution are among the pressing challenges that require immediate attention. These
issues not only have far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and natural resources but also impact
human societies, exacerbating social inequalities and threatening livelihoods.

In conclusion, global affairs encompass a range of complex issues that demand urgent attention and
collective action. From global crises to environmental challenges, inequality, and poverty, these issues
have far-reaching implications for societies worldwide. Addressing these challenges requires
international cooperation, innovative solutions, and a commitment to promoting sustainable
development and social justice. By working together, we can strive towards a more equitable, inclusive,
and sustainable world for all.
And in this assignment we have answered the questions and discuss on this issues and tried to explain
them in the following article

1) Identify the significant global crises and challenges confronting humanity in the twenty-first century.
Determine the factors/reasons behind our world's different contemporary global concerns. Discuss the
role that global citizens should play in mitigating such global concerns.

The significant global crises and challenges confronting humanity in the twenty-first century can be
categorized as follows:

Climate Change: The increasing global temperatures, rising sea levels, extreme weather events and loss
of biodiversity are major concerns. Factors contributing to climate change include greenhouse gas
emissions from burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial activities and agricultural practices.
Economic Inequality: The unequal distribution of wealth and resources has led to social and economic
disparities. Factors behind economic inequality include unequal access to education, healthcare, and
economic opportunities, as well as systemic issues such as corruption and unfair economic policies.

Global Health: The emergence of infectious diseases, pandemics, and inadequate healthcare systems
pose significant challenges to global health. Factors contributing to global health concerns include lack
of access to healthcare services, inadequate funding for healthcare infrastructure, and the rapid spread
of diseases due to globalization and travel.

Political Instability: Conflicts, terrorism, and political unrest disrupt societies worldwide. Factors
contributing to political instability include socio-economic disparities, ethnic and religious tensions,
political corruption, and weak governance.

Technological Disruption: Rapid advancements in technology bring both opportunities and challenges.
Factors behind technological concerns include job displacement due to automation, privacy and security
concerns, and ethical dilemmas related to artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

Citizens all over the world have a crucial role in mitigating these global concerns. They should:

People can raise Awareness by educating themselves and others about these challenges through various
channels such as social media, educational campaigns and discussions. Raising awareness helps create a
sense of urgency and encourages collective action.

People can also advocate for change by engaging in activism, lobbying, and participating in democratic
processes, global citizens can push for policy changes and reforms that address these global concerns.
They can also support organizations and initiatives working towards sustainable solutions.

Global citizens can also adopt sustainable practices they can make conscious choices in their daily lives
to reduce their carbon footprint, such as conserving energy, reducing waste, adopting renewable energy
sources, and supporting sustainable businesses and practices.

We global citizens can also promote international collaboration and dialogue to address these
challenges. This can include supporting initiatives like international agreements on climate change,
advocating for increased funding for global health initiatives, and promoting peaceful resolution of
conflicts.

Global citizens can support grassroots organizations and initiatives that empower marginalized
communities, promote education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. This can be done through
volunteering, donating, or advocating for policies that prioritize inclusivity and equality.

In summary, global citizens/people all over the world have a vital role to play in mitigating the significant
global crises and challenges of the twenty first century. By raising awareness, advocating for change,
adopting sustainable practices, supporting global cooperation and empowering local communities they
can also contribute to creating a more sustainable, equitable and resilient world.
2) Where do you believe terrorism, weapons proliferation, inequality, poverty, climate change, and
cultural disputes are most prevalent? Why? And who do you blame for this?

Terrorism, weapons proliferation, inequality, poverty, climate change, and cultural disputes are
complex issues that can be found in various parts of the world. It is important to note that the
prevalence of these challenges cannot be attributed to a single factor or entity, as they are influenced by
a combination of factors and dynamics. However, I can provide some insights on their prevalence and
contributing factors:

Terrorism: Terrorism is a global concern, but it is more prevalent in regions experiencing political
instability, socio-economic disparities, and ethnic or religious tensions. Areas such as the Middle East,
South Asia, and parts of Africa have witnessed higher levels of terrorist activities due to factors like weak
governance, historical conflicts, ideological extremism, and geopolitical rivalries.

Weapons Proliferation: Weapons proliferation, including the spread of nuclear, chemical, and
conventional weapons, is a global concern. It is prevalent in regions with ongoing conflicts, political
instability, or weak arms control measures. Areas such as the Middle East, North Korea, and parts of
Africa have been associated with weapons proliferation due to regional rivalries, arms races, and illicit
arms trafficking.

Inequality and Poverty: Inequality and poverty exist in varying degrees globally, but they are particularly
prevalent in regions with limited access to resources, education, healthcare, and economic
opportunities. Developing countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, and Latin America,
face significant challenges in addressing inequality and poverty due to factors like corruption, weak
governance, inadequate social safety nets, and historical economic disparities.

Climate Change: Climate change affects the entire planet, but its impact is more pronounced in regions
vulnerable to environmental changes, including coastal areas, arid regions, and small island nations.
Areas such as the Pacific Islands, Bangladesh, and parts of Africa are particularly susceptible to rising sea
levels, extreme weather events, and agricultural disruptions due to their geographical location and
socio-economic vulnerabilities.

Cultural Disputes: Cultural disputes can arise in diverse societies due to differences in values, beliefs,
and historical grievances. They are more prevalent in regions with ethnic, religious, or linguistic diversity
and historical conflicts. Areas such as the Middle East, South Asia, and the Balkans have experienced
cultural disputes due to factors like colonial legacies, political boundaries, and competition for
resources.

It is crucial that we avoid assigning blame or characterize a group for these global challenges. They are
the result of complex interactions involving governments, international organizations, societal factors,
historical events and structural inequalities. Addressing these challenges requires collective efforts,
cooperation and a comprehensive understanding of the underlying causes. Governments, international
organizations, civil society, and individuals all have a role to play in mitigating these concerns and
promoting sustainable solutions. Blaming any single entity would oversimplify the complexities involved
and hinder the collaborative efforts needed for effective solutions.

3) What environmental issues is our world currently facing? Discuss how current global environmental
concerns vary from those that humanity has encountered in the past.

Our world is currently facing several pressing environmental issues that pose significant challenges to
the well-being of both ecosystems and human populations. Some of the key environmental issues
include:

Climate Change: The Earth's climate is undergoing rapid and unprecedented changes due to human
activities, leading to rising global temperatures, sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and disruptions
to ecosystems. Climate change is primarily driven by the emission of greenhouse gases from burning
fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.

Loss of Biodiversity: The rate of species extinction is accelerating at an alarming pace, primarily due to
habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and overexploitation of natural resources. Loss of
biodiversity has far-reaching consequences, including the disruption of ecosystems, loss of ecosystem
services, and potential impacts on human health and food security.

Deforestation: The clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, and urbanization continues to be a major
environmental concern. Deforestation leads to habitat loss, contributes to climate change through the
release of stored carbon, and disrupts ecosystems that depend on forests for their survival.

Water Scarcity: Many regions around the world are experiencing water scarcity, either due to
overconsumption, pollution, or unsustainable water management practices. This issue affects
agriculture, industry, and access to clean drinking water, posing significant challenges to human health,
food production, and economic development.

Pollution: Pollution of air, water, and soil is a persistent global environmental concern. Emissions from
industrial activities, transportation, and agriculture contribute to air pollution, while improper waste
disposal and chemical runoff contaminate water bodies and soil, endangering ecosystems and human
health.
Land Degradation: Unsustainable land use practices, including intensive agriculture, deforestation, and
urbanization, contribute to land degradation. This includes soil erosion, desertification, and the loss of
productive land, which impacts food production, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience.

The current global environmental concerns differ from those humanity has encountered in the past in
several ways:

Scale and Intensity: The scale and intensity of the current environmental issues are unprecedented.
Climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution are occurring at a global scale and have far-reaching
impacts on ecosystems and human societies.

Human-Driven Causes: Unlike past environmental challenges that were primarily natural in origin, the
current issues are largely driven by human activities. Factors such as population growth,
industrialization, and unsustainable consumption patterns have accelerated the degradation of the
environment.

Interconnectedness: The current global environmental concerns are highly interconnected. Climate
change, for example, impacts biodiversity, water resources, and human health, creating a complex web
of interdependencies that require holistic solutions.

Scientific Understanding: Our understanding of the environmental issues has significantly improved
compared to the past. Advances in scientific research and technology have provided us with a clearer
understanding of the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to these challenges.

Addressing the current global environmental concerns requires collective action, international
cooperation, and transformative changes in policies, behaviors, and technologies. It is essential to adopt
sustainable practices, transition to low-carbon economies, protect and restore ecosystems, promote
renewable energy, and strive for more equitable and resilient societies.

4) Discuss the systematic relationship between global inequality and global poverty. Discuss the impact
of global inequality and poverty on global conflict/cooperation and peace/war.

The systematic relationship between global inequality and global poverty is closely intertwined, and
they often reinforce each other in a vicious cycle. Global inequality refers to the unequal distribution of
wealth, resources, and opportunities among individuals and countries on a global scale. Global poverty,
on the other hand, refers to the condition of individuals and communities lacking basic necessities such
as food, clean water, healthcare, education, and adequate shelter.

The Impact of Global Inequality on Global Poverty:

Limited Access to Resources: Global inequality often results in a disproportionate concentration of

resources in the hands of a few individuals or countries, leaving a significant portion of the global
population with limited access to basic necessities. This includes access to clean water, food, healthcare,
education, housing, and sanitation. The lack of access to these resources perpetuates poverty and
prevents individuals and communities from breaking free from the cycle of deprivation.

Unequal Economic Opportunities: Global inequality leads to unequal economic opportunities, with
limited access to decent jobs and fair wages for those in poverty. In many cases, individuals in
impoverished regions are trapped in low-paying and precarious jobs, which further entrenches their
poverty. Lack of access to education and skills development exacerbates this inequality, as it limits the
ability of individuals to secure better employment opportunities.

Education and Human Capital: Education is a powerful tool for social and economic mobility. However,
global inequality often results in limited access to quality education for those living in poverty.
Inadequate educational opportunities perpetuate intergenerational poverty, as children from
impoverished backgrounds are less likely to receive a quality education, limiting their ability to escape
poverty in the future. This lack of education and human capital development reinforces the cycle of
poverty across generations.

Healthcare and Well-being: Global inequality has a profound impact on healthcare and well-being. Those
living in poverty often lack access to basic healthcare services, including preventive care, vaccinations,
and essential medicines. Limited access to healthcare exacerbates health disparities and leads to higher
mortality rates among the impoverished. Global inequality also affects nutrition, as impoverished
communities often struggle to access sufficient and nutritious food, leading to malnutrition and related
health problems.

Social and Political Exclusion: Global inequality can result in social and political exclusion for those living
in poverty. Marginalized communities often face discrimination and limited participation in decision-
making processes that affect their lives. This exclusion further perpetuates their poverty by denying
them opportunities for social and economic advancement.

Impact of Global Inequality and Poverty on Global Conflict:

The impact of global inequality and poverty on global conflict is profound and complex. While not the
sole cause of conflicts, they play a significant role in exacerbating tensions and increasing the likelihood
of violent conflicts. Let's delve deeper into the impact of global inequality and poverty on global conflict:

Grievances and Social Unrest: Global inequality and poverty create grievances and social unrest. When a
significant portion of the population lacks access to basic necessities and sees a small fraction of the
global population amassing vast wealth, it fosters feelings of injustice, frustration, and resentment.
These grievances can fuel social and political tensions, leading to protests, civil unrest, and even violent
conflicts.
Political Instability: Poverty and inequality can contribute to political instability, making countries more
susceptible to conflicts. Limited access to resources, lack of social services, and unequal distribution of
power can lead to weak governance and institutions. In such circumstances, political turmoil, corruption,
and authoritarianism can thrive, creating a fertile ground for conflicts to emerge.

Ethnic, Religious, and Social Divisions: Global inequality and poverty can exacerbate existing divisions
based on ethnicity, religion, or social class. When certain groups are disproportionately affected by
poverty and marginalization, it creates a sense of exclusion and discrimination. These divisions can be
exploited by opportunistic leaders or extremist ideologies, leading to conflicts driven by identity politics.

Resource Competition: Inequality and poverty can intensify competition for scarce resources, such as
land, water, or energy. When communities or nations face limited resources and economic
opportunities, it can lead to conflicts over control and access to these resources. Resource-driven
conflicts can escalate into violent confrontations, especially in regions where natural resources are
abundant but unequally distributed.

Armed Conflict and Terrorism: Poverty and inequality can make individuals more susceptible to
recruitment by armed groups or engagement in criminal activities. Desperation, lack of economic
opportunities, and social exclusion can push people towards extremist ideologies or illegal activities as a
means of survival. These dynamics contribute to the potential for armed conflicts and acts of terrorism.

Refugee Crisis and Migration: Inequality and poverty can contribute to refugee crises and mass
migration. When people lack basic necessities and face violence or instability, they are often forced to
flee their homes in search of safety and better opportunities. Large-scale migration and refugee flows
can strain resources, create social tensions, and increase the risk of conflicts between host communities
and migrants.

Addressing global inequality and poverty is crucial for reducing the risk of conflicts. Efforts to promote
economic development, equitable access to resources, social inclusion, and good governance can help
alleviate the underlying causes of conflicts. Investing in education, healthcare, and social safety nets can
empower individuals and communities, reducing their vulnerability to extremist ideologies and violence.
By fostering inclusive growth and addressing the root causes of inequality and poverty, societies can
work towards a more peaceful and stable world.

Impact of Global Inequality and Poverty on Global Cooperation and Peace:

The impact of global inequality and poverty on global cooperation and peace is significant. Addressing
these issues is crucial for fostering inclusive and sustainable development, promoting social cohesion,
and building a more peaceful world. Let's delve deeper into the impact of global inequality and poverty
on global cooperation and peace:
Trust and Mistrust: Global inequality can create a sense of mistrust between countries and hinder
international cooperation. When there are significant disparities in wealth and power, it can lead to
suspicion and competition among nations. Countries with limited resources may perceive more affluent
nations as exploitative or self-interested, making cooperation challenging. Reducing global inequality
can help build trust and foster a more cooperative international environment.

Limited Resources for Development: Poverty and inequality can impede development efforts and limit
countries' capacity to invest in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other critical areas. This lack of
resources hampers countries' ability to participate fully in global cooperation initiatives. By reducing
poverty and inequality, countries can unlock their potential, contribute to global development goals, and
actively engage in cooperative efforts.

Inclusive Decision-making: Global inequality and poverty often result in the exclusion of marginalized
groups from decision-making processes. When certain populations are left out of discussions and policy-
making, their needs and perspectives may be overlooked. Inclusive decision-making processes that
involve all segments of society can lead to better cooperation, as it ensures that diverse voices are heard
and that policies address the concerns of those most affected by poverty and inequality.

Conflict Prevention and Resolution: Addressing global inequality and poverty is essential for preventing
conflicts and promoting peace. Poverty and inequality are often drivers of social and political tensions,
which can escalate into violent conflicts. By reducing poverty and addressing the root causes of
inequality, societies can create conditions for stability, social harmony, and sustainable peace.
Moreover, investing in poverty reduction, education, healthcare, and inclusive economic growth can
contribute to conflict prevention and resolution efforts.

Shared Responsibility and Solidarity: Global inequality and poverty call for a sense of shared
responsibility and solidarity among nations. Countries with more resources and capacity have a moral
obligation to support those in need and work towards reducing global disparities. International
cooperation and partnerships can play a crucial role in addressing poverty and inequality by sharing
knowledge, resources, and best practices. By fostering a sense of global solidarity, nations can work
together towards a more equitable and peaceful world.

Building Resilience and Sustainable Peace: Poverty and inequality make societies more vulnerable to
shocks and crises, including economic downturns, natural disasters, and climate change impacts. By
addressing poverty and inequality, societies can build resilience and reduce the likelihood of conflicts
arising from these vulnerabilities. Investing in social protection programs, improving access to education
and healthcare, and promoting infusive economic growth are essential for building resilient societies
and sustainable peace.

Addressing global inequality and poverty requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses
inclusive economic policies, social protection measures, access to quality education and healthcare, and
promoting equitable distribution of resources. By reducing poverty and inequality, societies can foster
cooperation, build trust, and work towards a more peaceful and prosperous world for all.

Impact of Global Inequality and Poverty on Peace and War:

The impact of global inequality and poverty on peace and war is profound and interconnected. Poverty
and inequality can contribute to the emergence of conflicts and hinder the achievement of sustainable
peace. Let's delve deeper into the impact of global inequality and poverty on peace and war:

Root Causes of Conflict: Poverty and inequality are often root causes of conflicts. When a significant
portion of the population lacks access to basic resources, opportunities, and social services, it can create
grievances, frustration, and desperation. These conditions increase the likelihood of social and political
instability, which can escalate into violent conflicts. Addressing poverty and inequality is essential to
tackling the underlying causes of conflicts and promoting peace.

Conflict Dynamics: Inequality and poverty can exacerbate conflict dynamics. In situations of conflict, the
most vulnerable and marginalized populations are often the hardest hit. Poverty and inequality can
deepen divisions along ethnic, religious, or social lines, leading to identity-based conflicts. Moreover,
armed groups may exploit poverty and inequality to recruit individuals, perpetuating cycles of violence.
Addressing poverty and inequality can help mitigate conflict dynamics and contribute to lasting peace.

Resource Scarcity and Competition: Global inequality and poverty can intensify competition for scarce
resources, such as land, water, or energy. In regions where resources are unequally distributed, conflicts
can arise over control and access to these resources. This resource-driven conflict can lead to violence
and war. By addressing poverty and promoting equitable resource allocation, societies can reduce the
potential for conflicts arising from resource scarcity.

Refugee Crises and Displacement: Poverty and inequality contribute to refugee crises and mass
displacement. When people lack basic necessities and face violence or instability, they are often forced
to flee their homes in search of safety and better opportunities. Large-scale migration and refugee flows
can strain resources, create social tensions, and increase the risk of conflicts between host communities
and displaced populations. Addressing poverty and inequality can help prevent displacement and reduce
the likelihood of conflicts associated with refugee crises.

Arms Trade and Militarization: Inequality and poverty can contribute to the proliferation of the arms
trade and militarization. Impoverished countries may prioritize military spending over social
development, exacerbating inequalities and diverting resources away from poverty reduction efforts.
This arms trade and militarization can escalate tensions and increase the risk of armed conflicts.
Addressing poverty and inequality can help redirect resources towards social development, reducing the
potential for conflicts fueled by militarization.

Peacebuilding and Sustainable Development: Poverty and inequality hinder peacebuilding and
sustainable development efforts. In post-conflict situations, poverty and inequality can impede the
process of rebuilding societies and establishing lasting peace. Sustainable peace requires addressing the
root causes of conflicts, including poverty and inequality. By promoting inclusive development, access to
education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, societies can lay the foundation for sustainable
peace.

Addressing global inequality and poverty is crucial for achieving lasting peace. Efforts to reduce poverty
and promote equity should be coupled with conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and inclusive
governance. By addressing the structural inequalities that fuel conflicts and investing in sustainable
development, societies can work towards a more peaceful world, where the root causes of poverty and
inequality are tackled, and the conditions for peace are fostered.

5) What exactly is a clash of cultures/civilizations? Discuss the various cultural/civilization fault lines that
are currently perceived to be fighting with one another. Discuss the impact of cultural/civilizational
clashes on global conflict/cooperation and peace/war.

A clash of cultures or civilizations refers to a situation where different cultural or civilizational groups
encounter conflicts, tensions, or disagreements due to their differing values, beliefs, customs, and
worldviews. It is a concept popularized by political scientist Samuel P. Huntington, who argued that
future conflicts would primarily occur along cultural fault lines rather than ideological or economic
divisions. However, it is important to note that the concept has been subject to criticism and debate
within the academic community.

Several cultural or civilizational fault lines have been identified as sources of potential clashes or
conflicts:

Western-Islamic Divide: One of the most well-known fault lines is the perceived divide between the
Western world and the Islamic world. Differences in religious beliefs, political systems, and cultural
practices have led to tensions and conflicts in various regions, such as the Middle East and North Africa.
Issues such as terrorism, political radicalization, and geopolitical rivalries have contributed to the
perception of a clash between these civilizations.

East-West Divide: The cultural and ideological differences between Eastern and Western civilizations
have also been identified as a potential fault line. These differences arise from diverse values, historical
experiences, and political systems. While conflicts along this fault line have not been as pronounced as
others, there have been instances of tensions and disagreements, particularly in relation to human
rights, democratic governance, and economic systems.

Religious Fault Lines: Religious fault lines, such as those between Christianity and Islam, have been a
source of conflict throughout history. Competing religious ideologies, historical grievances, and
geopolitical interests have contributed to these tensions. Conflicts and violence related to religious
differences continue to pose challenges to global peace and cooperation.

Ethnic and Nationalistic Divisions: Ethnic and nationalistic fault lines can also contribute to cultural
clashes. These divisions arise from differences in language, history, traditions, and aspirations for self-
determination. Ethnic and nationalistic conflicts, such as those in the Balkans, Rwanda, or the Kashmir
region, have been fueled by these fault lines.

Globalization and Cultural Identity: Globalization has led to increased interconnectivity and cultural
exchange, but it has also raised concerns about the erosion of cultural identities. The clash between
globalization and traditional cultural values can lead to tensions and conflicts, particularly in
conservative societies. Issues such as cultural imperialism, cultural hegemony, and the preservation of
cultural heritage have become points of contention.

The impact of cultural or civilizational clashes on global conflict, cooperation, peace, and war is
complex and multifaceted:

Conflict and War: Cultural clashes can contribute to conflicts and even escalate into wars. Differences in
values, beliefs, and interests can create deep-rooted animosities and fuel violence. Historical grievances,
territorial disputes, and political rivalries often intersect with cultural fault lines, leading to protracted
conflicts and armed confrontations.

Cooperation and Peace: Cultural clashes, on the other hand, can also serve as a catalyst for increased
dialogue, understanding, and cooperation between civilizations. Recognition and appreciation of diverse
cultural perspectives can foster cooperation in areas such as trade, diplomacy, education, and cultural
exchange. Efforts to bridge cultural divides and promote intercultural dialogue can contribute to
peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

Global Governance and Diplomacy: Cultural clashes can pose challenges to global governance and
diplomacy. Negotiations and decision-making processes can be hampered by cultural
misunderstandings, lack of trust, and divergent values. However, efforts to foster cultural sensitivity,
mutual respect, and inclusive dialogue can help overcome these challenges and enhance global
cooperation.

Peacebuilding and Reconciliation: Cultural clashes often leave deep scars and divisions within societies.
Peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts need to take into account cultural differences and address the
underlying causes of conflicts. Promoting cultural diversity, respecting cultural rights, and facilitating
intercultural dialogue are essential for fostering sustainable peace.

In summary, cultural or civilizational clashes can have both negative and positive impacts on global
conflict, cooperation, peace, and war. While conflicts along cultural fault lines have the potential to
escalate violence and hinder cooperation, efforts to promote cultural understanding, dialogue, and
respect can contribute to conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and a more harmonious global order.